The Ultimate Guide to Singing Legato: Techniques, Benefits, and Exercises

How to Sing Legato: Practical exercises for smooth singing (How to [music] Book 1)

by Jeremy Fisher

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2070 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	85 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Legato singing is a technique that involves connecting notes smoothly and seamlessly, creating a flowing and lyrical vocal line. It is a fundamental skill for all singers, regardless of their genre or style. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of legato singing, exploring its techniques, benefits, and effective exercises to enhance your vocal abilities.

Understanding Legato Technique

Legato singing requires precise coordination of breath control, vocal cord closure, and articulation. Let's break down these crucial elements:

1. Breath Control

Proper breath control is essential for maintaining a steady airflow and avoiding interruptions in legato singing. Inhale deeply and support your breath with your diaphragm. As you exhale, control the airflow using the muscles in your throat and abdominal wall.

2. Vocal Cord Closure

To achieve a seamless connection between notes, ensure that your vocal cords close completely before initiating each new sound. This prevents breathiness and creates a smooth transition between pitches.

3. Articulation

Articulation refers to the way in which consonants are pronounced. In legato singing, consonants should be articulated subtly and not interfere with the flow of the vocal line. Aim for clear but understated enunciation.

Benefits of Singing Legato

Mastering legato singing offers numerous benefits for singers:

• Enhanced Vocal Control: Legato strengthens vocal muscles, improving your ability to control pitch, volume, and tone.
• Increased Breath Efficiency: By connecting notes, you reduce unnecessary breathing interruptions and increase your breath efficiency.
• Improved Vocal Range: Legato singing helps to extend your vocal range by smoothing out transitions between registers.
• Emotional Expression: Legato creates a lyrical and expressive vocal line, enabling you to convey emotions more effectively.
• Stylistic Variety: Legato technique is applicable in various musical genres, from classical opera to contemporary pop.

Exercises to Improve Legato Singing

Regular practice is key to developing strong legato singing skills. Here are some effective exercises:

1. Slur Exercises

Slur exercises involve singing two or more notes on a single syllable. Start with simple intervals (e.g., major seconds, thirds) and gradually increase the intervallic distance as your control improves.

2. Lip Trills

Lip trills help to improve breath control and vocal cord coordination. Vibrate your lips by blowing air through them without producing sound. Focus on maintaining a steady airflow and equal pressure throughout.

3. Tongue Trills

Tongue trills strengthen the muscles in the tongue and throat. Rapidly alternate between rolling your tongue and flicking it up against the roof of your mouth. Keep your jaw relaxed and allow the air to flow freely.

4. Vocal Legato Practice

Choose a simple vocal melody and practice singing it legato, focusing on smooth transitions between notes. Gradually increase the tempo as your comfort and control improve.

Singing legato is a transformative skill that can elevate your vocal performance and enhance your musical expression. By understanding the techniques, appreciating the benefits, and diligently practicing the exercises outlined in this guide, you can develop strong legato singing skills and unlock a new level of vocal mastery. Remember, practice, patience, and a relentless pursuit of improvement are the keys to success in the art of legato singing.

How to Sing Legato: Practical exercises for smooth singing (How to [music] Book 1)

by Jeremy Fisher

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2070 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	85 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE